Be Prepared for Your Summer Camping Trip

Summer is a prime season for camping. The weather is warm, birds are singing, trees are green, and there is so much fun to be had outdoors. Of course, if you want to have a safe and enjoyable camping trip, you do need to be prepared. Here are some key tips to help you get ready for your upcoming adventure.

Campground
Photo by Blake Wisz on Unsplash

1. Check campground amenities before you leave.

Every campground is different. So, before you leave, you want to check what amenities the campground offers so that you can pack and plan accordingly.

Are there picnic tables? If not, you may want to pack your own portable, collapsible table. Does the campground have electric hook-ups, or will you need to bring a propane generator? Also check to see what recreational options are available. If there are basketball courts, you may want to pack a ball to play with. If there’s a pool, bring your bathing suit. If you are bringing kids, find out if they have swings, slides, climbers or other playground equipment.

2. Bring propane and other cooking gear.

Yes, you can always cook over the camp fire. However, campfire cooking can be a bit challenging, so you may not want to rely on it every night. If you also pack a propane gas tank and a gas grill, then you can grill food some nights.

Make sure you also pack other cooking essentials like tongs, basic seasonings, and oil. If you have a high-quality cooler, it should be able to keep food cold for two or three days, as long as you pack it well with ice.

3. Pack a first aid and toiletries kit.

You’ll want to plan a visit to your local pharmacy before you leave for your camping trip. Make sure you have a full first aid kit, stocked with band aids, antibiotic cream, gauze, iodine, and other essentials. You’ll also need some bug spray and sunscreen to keep your skin safe and protected.

4. Make laundry plans for your return.

Camping creates a lot of laundry. So, you may want to schedule a laundry pick-up service to stop by the day after you return. Items like tents and fly covers may need to go to your nearest dry cleaner. Check their tags for cleaning instructions.

Camping is a perfect way to get outside and enjoy the summer with friends and family members. With a good first aid kit, cooking equipment, laundry plans, and other essentials, you can relax and stay safe.

Celebrating the 4th of July During a Pandemic

The 4th of July is always the event of the summer, but things are a little different this year. Maybe we can’t go to parades or fireworks celebrations, or have a giant neighborhood block party, but we can still have a good time. Here’s are some ways to celebrate the 4th during a pandemic.

Freshen Up Your Flag

You may have already been proudly displaying your American flag, but preparing for the Fourth is the perfect reason to freshen it up a bit. Most dry cleaners will clean flags for free, so give them a call to ask about their policies. A flag can get a bit grimy and even moldy after swaying in the breeze through all sorts of weather, so you should have it professionally cleaned at least once a year. If it’s a big flag, you should take advantage of a free laundry delivery service in your area.

Plan a Picnic With Your Family

You may not be able to have a giant backyard BBQ this year, but you can still plan a fun picnic with your family. Now would be a perfect time to prep your linens and blankets, and anything else you may need for a picnic in the grass. Most of these items can be machine washed, but for fancier or delicate fabrics, you may want to take them to your local dry cleaners. Don’t forget the bug spray and sunscreen, both available at your nearby pharmacy.

Go Camping

Now’s the perfect time to go on a camping trip, even if it’s not very far away. If you don’t own an RV or camper, think about renting or borrowing one, for a great weekend getaway on a budget. Don’t forget to fill that propane tank so you’re all ready to go.

4th of July during a pandemic doesn’t mean you have to be stuck inside, think outside the box and enjoy some quality time with your family safely!